Olivia Dobbs
On takeaways from WSU: "For me, it was learning that I had a great education at Wayne State, but initially I didn’t know how to describe my skills to employers or put my strengths into context when competing with other candidates for jobs. Once I started working and talking with colleagues, I realized that I had learned all the same things and more than they had at their universities. It gave me so much confidence."
When were you at WSU, and what was your major?
I did my undergrad at WSU from 2009 to 2013. I completed dual degrees; a Bachelor of Science majoring in Environmental Science, and a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Urban Studies. I was also a member of the NCAA Division I women’s fencing team.
Describe your career in a few sentences.
I chose my dual majors because I wanted to work in urban planning, but I knew that cities would need to become more sustainable in the future. I started my career in data analysis with a housing research center, then a school district, and then later a public health nonprofit – all different facets of life in urban settings. I then turned to program and project management, first for a housing developer, then for a consulting firm that advises on the economics of public space and parks within cities. I never minded jumping around topic areas, because I could bring different perspectives to my work from those experiences.
What are you doing these days?
I am currently on a year-long sabbatical in Europe, which is a short pause from my career, but an opportunity to learn new languages, explore and travel through Europe, and get exposure to different cultures. Before this, I worked for a small consulting firm called James Lima Planning + Development as a senior project manager, providing economic and urban planning advisory services to cities and other clients around the US.
What unexpected lesson did you carry from your WSU experience into your life and career?
For me, it was learning that I had a great education at Wayne State, but initially I didn’t know how to describe my skills to employers or put my strengths into context when competing with other candidates for jobs. Once I started working and talking with colleagues, I realized that I had learned all the same things and more than they had at their universities. It gave me so much confidence.
What's your favorite book/movie/show?
My current favorite show is Andor because of the way it breaks down every step that leads to Andor becoming a leader with a rock-solid sense of purpose.
Favorite travel destination?
Bordeaux, France. Such a dynamic place, where I learn something new every time I visit.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I don’t spend a lot of time reading the news (it can be so depressing), but I love to dig into a long-form article or a research paper, and I learn a lot about the world that way.
What is the personality trait you most admire?
Curiosity. The world really opens up when you start with the assumption that you have more to learn about the people around you.
What is the personality trait you most deplore?
I have a hard time with extreme risk-aversion. The world is full of risks! Some of them will change your life. And that’s a good thing.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
One that stands out is my 8th place finish at NCAA championships as an All-American my freshman year. I don’t think anyone had high expectations for me, but I fought through the whole season believing the sky was the limit and got to see exactly what I could achieve.
What is your most treasured possession?
I’m a big DIY projects person – it’s where I get to express my creativity – so my 195-year-old house, which is always at least a little bit under construction, means a lot to me.